Take A Ride

The song "Take A Ride" by Vallejo from their 2002 album Stereo is a fan favorite, often celebrated for its infectious blend of classic rock, funky rhythms, and Latin percussion. In a 2014 interview with the Austin Chronicle, lead vocalist and guitarist AJ Vallejo described the track as a "road trip anthem" born from the band’s relentless touring days in the late '90s and early 2000s. He shared that the song’s lyrics were inspired by a late-night drive through the Texas Hill Country, where the band, exhausted from a gig, found solace in the open road and the camaraderie of their van. The groove, AJ noted, was crafted to capture the feeling of freedom and escape, which resonates with the Zoo Freaks spinning it at THE ZOO radio station.

Another tidbit about "Take A Ride" surfaced on Vallejo’s X account in a 2020 post, where the band shared a throwback photo from the Stereo recording sessions. They revealed that the song’s iconic percussion breakdown was almost cut from the final mix due to time constraints in the studio. Drummer Alex Vallejo, however, insisted on keeping it, arguing it gave the track its "heart and soul." Fans on the Vallejo Fanatics Facebook group often cite this section as a highlight during live performances, with some recalling a 2003 Austin show where the band extended the breakdown for nearly five minutes, driving the crowd wild.

Vallejo was founded by three brothers—AJ Vallejo (eldest twin, vocals and guitar), Alex Vallejo (younger twin, drums), and Omar Vallejo (bass)—who were born in El Campo, Texas, and later moved to Alabaster, Alabama, during their pre-teen years. Their musical journey began in the mid-1980s when their father gifted them trumpets, hoping they’d emulate Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass. By 1987, the brothers pivoted to rock, with Alex picking up drums, AJ borrowing guitars, and Omar switching to bass. They honed their craft in their family’s basement, covering ‘80s metal and classic rock while writing originals, including early versions of songs like "Boogieman." By 1988, they were performing as "The Vallejo Bros" at local house parties in Birmingham, Alabama, quickly becoming a go-to act for teenage crowds.

In 1989, the brothers won a Birmingham battle of the bands, earning free studio time and catching the attention of Motown producer Michael Panapento. He produced their first cassette, The Raw Sessions, and later their 1991 debut album, Sins, on the indie label Chapel Lane. This marked the emergence of Vallejo’s signature sound, blending album rock with Latin percussion. In 1995, seeking a bigger stage, the band relocated to Austin, Texas, where they hustled gigs on 6th Street and built a following. Their breakthrough came in 1996 when they signed with Chicago’s IMI Records after a standout SXSW showcase, leading to their 1997 self-titled album (re-released as Shining Sun by TVT Records), which scored radio hits and national tours.

Fans can connect with Vallejo through their official Facebook page, Instagram, and X account, where they share updates on music, tours, and AJ’s hot sauce ventures. The Vallejo Fanatics Facebook group is a lively hub for Zoo Freaks and other devotees, with members posting rare live videos, memorabilia, and stories from past shows. While no official fan websites stand out, the band’s official site offers a discography, merch, and a history page detailing their journey from Alabama basements to Austin stages.